"The Riff" with Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg cover image

"The Riff" with Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg

Latest episodes

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18 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 1h 3min

E64: US vs China’s Strategies, Uber’s Growth Model, AI Supply Chains

Explore how globalization is creatively adapting rather than reversing, with intriguing strategies like routing Chinese goods through Vietnam. Delve into the challenges China faces with an over-leveraged real estate sector and a declining population. Listen in on AI's evolution towards specialized applications and data access. Discover Uber's transformation, navigating the tumultuous waters of autonomous vehicles that pose an existential threat to its marketplace. This insightful discussion highlights the intersection of technology, economics, and strategy.
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85 snips
Feb 11, 2025 • 59min

E63: OpenAI Deep Research, Elon’s Potential Hostile Takeover, and AI Agent Companies

Explore the staggering implications of Elon Musk's $97 billion bid to acquire OpenAI's nonprofit control. Discover how AI research is becoming faster and more practical, despite some quality compromises. The competitive edge of tech giants like Apple and Google in AI development is discussed, along with the challenges of replicating successful teams. The role of sovereign wealth funds in stabilizing economies is examined, drawing parallels to historic governmental roles in crises. A deep dive into the evolving landscape of regulations reveals the complexities of technology and governance.
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49 snips
Feb 4, 2025 • 1h 9min

E62: Trump’s Tariffs, Open Source AI Models, and The Future of VR

The discussion dives into the implications of Trump's tariffs, highlighting their role as negotiation tools while questioning their long-term viability. The podcast also navigates the complexities of global trade in relation to economic populism and the EU's future. In the tech realm, they explore how AI developments are reshaping market dynamics, particularly how negative news affects stock performance. Meta's heavy investments in AI are scrutinized, revealing potential competitive advantages. The evolving landscape of open-source vs. proprietary AI models rounds out the conversation.
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86 snips
Jan 28, 2025 • 1h 6min

E61: Markets React to DeepSeek, Threads vs X, and Stargate Announcement

The discussion kicks off with DeepSeek's AI model and its ripple effects on Nvidia's stock, revealing how volatility can influence broader market behavior. Insights on the competitive tech landscape highlight the dichotomy between U.S. innovations and challenges faced by platforms like Threads against X. A massive AI infrastructure project signals serious commitment, reshaping investment strategies. The interplay of state influence and national champions reflects ongoing tension in tech and data privacy, especially with entities like TikTok under scrutiny.
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51 snips
Jan 23, 2025 • 1h 4min

E60: Trump Coin, US Industrial Policy, and TikTok Ban

This discussion delves into Trump's cryptocurrency ventures and the evolving world of meme investments. It highlights the influence of social media on markets and the complexities of ethical investing. There’s also a critical look at China's economic challenges and the unexpected economic potential of Japan. The podcast explores the shifting political landscape surrounding TikTok, noting bipartisan concerns over its influence. Listeners are taken through the intricate tapestry of U.S. industrial policy and its implications for future geopolitical dynamics.
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115 snips
Jan 18, 2025 • 1h 3min

E59: Zuck’s PR, The Loneliness Economy, and OpenAI Corporate Structure

Dive into the intriguing evolution of economic paradigms from agrarian to industrial, with insights on how these shifts can boost growth by tenfold. Discover the 'Loneliness Economy' shaped by the pandemic, driving the rise of digital services. Explore Meta's efforts in content moderation and the challenges of maintaining a positive public image. The discussion also uncovers OpenAI's transition to a for-profit model, highlighting the complexities of corporate governance in tech giants and the implications for future AI development.
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135 snips
Dec 26, 2024 • 1h

E58: How Jensen Huang Outpaces Tech Giants w/ Tae Kim, author of THE NVIDIA WAY

Dive into NVIDIA's fascinating journey under Jensen Huang’s leadership, where a relentless work culture and talent cultivation drive success. Discover the company's unique 'rough justice' philosophy in partnerships, prioritizing long-term gains. Huang's flat organizational structure and innovative communication methods create a dynamic environment. Explore how NVIDIA evolved from gaming to AI, showcasing rapid innovation and strategic acquisitions that redefine its industry positioning.
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119 snips
Dec 19, 2024 • 1h 6min

E57: Pod Shops; Contrarian Vibe Checks; Scaling Laws Analysis

This discussion dives into the evolution of the pod shop hedge fund model, focusing on generating uncorrelated returns. They explore how current market conditions might lead to slower stock price growth despite company expansions. The conversation also touches on AI pricing models and their challenges, as well as the impact of AI on content creation and labor dynamics. Interesting insights are shared on how investor sentiment affects market trends, and the potential risks of AI replacing human connections in entertainment.
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98 snips
Dec 12, 2024 • 1h 2min

E56: AI Agents are Coming; China’s Internet; Google Wants to Win

The conversation dives into the economic implications of AI, highlighting its potential J-curve effect—initially deflationary but possibly inflationary later. It scrutinizes the limits of passive investing and suggests a cyclical future with active trading. The evolution of the gambling industry hints at new social norms and self-regulation. Google's struggle between innovation and bureaucracy shines a light on its corporate challenges. Finally, discussions around tariffs reveal their complex impact on the American workforce and consumer dynamics.
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20 snips
Nov 21, 2024 • 1h 3min

E55: Futarchy, Elon, and Gut Decisions in Business

Dive into the intriguing tensions between technological change and government efficiency. Explore the complexities of gut decisions in business leadership, weighing instinct against strategy. Delve into the potential collaborations between tech titans like Elon Musk and Sam Altman as they shape the future of AI. Reflect on the emotional challenges traders face amidst political forecasting, especially concerning Trump's policies. Unravel the dynamics of market perceptions and how they influence company behaviors and media landscapes.

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